A site visit is where most buying decisions are made, and where most mistakes start. Brochures and photos show the best angle. This checklist helps you see the whole picture in one visit.
The location
- Travel time to work, school and hospital at peak hour.
- Road width outside, street lights and how the road looks after rain.
- Noise and smell sources nearby: highway, railway, factories, drains, marriage gardens.
- Open land next door and what the master plan allows there.
The building or plot
- For flats: cracks, seepage marks, slope of bathroom floors, quality of windows and fittings.
- Water pressure on the top floor; ask about the water source and storage.
- Lifts, power backup capacity, fire fighting equipment and parking allotment.
- For plots: boundary stones, plot size on the ground, road width and drainage.
- Sunlight and ventilation in the main rooms; the facing you prefer.
The society and neighbours
- Monthly maintenance, sinking fund and what they cover.
- Whether the residents' association has taken over from the builder.
- Talk to two residents. Ask about water, power cuts, security and the builder's response.
Documents to see (copies are fine at this stage)
- RERA registration and approved plans for projects.
- Title documents, approval letters, and for resale, the previous sale deed and tax receipts.
- Occupancy or completion certificate for ready buildings.
- No-dues from the society and electricity and water bills.
Tip:Take photos and a short video of everything. Comparing three properties a week later is impossible from memory.
Questions to ask the seller
- Why are you selling, and how soon do you need to close?
- Is there any loan on the property?
- What is included in the price (parking, fittings, club membership)?
- What are the total charges beyond the base price?
After the visit
Rank the properties on a simple score of location, quality, price and documents. Then ask an advisor or lawyer to check the papers of your top choice before paying any token. You can book a free guided site visit with ATTPL Realty, and we will bring this checklist with us.
Frequently asked questions
How many site visits should I do before buying?
Visit at least three properties, and visit your final choice twice, once on a weekday and once on a weekend or evening.
Should I pay a token on the first visit?
No. Pay a token only after the key documents have been checked.
What is an occupancy certificate?
A certificate from the local authority confirming the building is complete as per approved plans and fit to occupy.
This article is general information, written in November 2026, and is not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and limits change; please confirm the current position with the authority concerned or a qualified professional before you act.
